Ghost Plant

This hardy succulent has greyish-white opalescent leaves. Interestingly, the overlapping triangular leaves form a Fibonacci spiral. When grown in semi-shaded areas they tend to be blue/grey, whereas, when grown in full sunshine, they can be pinkish grey. In spring, they produce dainty sprays of miniature star-shaped yellow flowers. Spectacular as a mass-planted water-wise groundcover, they are very easy to propagate, but be careful as the stems are brittle and can break easily.

Planning

Difficulty

Easy

Flowering time

Spring, Summer

Fruiting time

Summer

Harvesting

Not applicable

Propagation

Cuttings

Place stalks directly into soil. They will begin to develop roots within seven days.

Special features

Drought resistant

The fleshy succulent leaves store moisture to survive drought.

Pot plant

Does well in pots and its rangy habit causes it to cascade over the edge. Also useful in hanging baskets.

Geography

Origin

Mexico

Natural climate

Hot and dry

Environment

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Soil moisture

Dry

Soil type

Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil PH preference

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Frost hardiness

Half-Hardy

Uses

Medicinal

There is research under way into the use of extract of Graptopetalum paraguayense as a treatment for liver cancer.